§ 44. Mr. Sorensenasked the Minister of Health to what extent it is customary for regional hospital boards, hospital group committees, or matrons to consult employees of any grade before considering new appointments to their staffs; and, where this is the practice, what steps he has taken to recommend that it be discontinued.
§ Mr. Iain MacleodJoint machinery is widely used for consultation on matters affecting management and staff, and I would greatly deplore any narrowing of its proper scope.
§ Mr. SorensenIs the right hon. Gentleman not aware that this goes far beyond those terms of reference, because staff have been asked whether they would be prepared to accept other staff even though they happen to be coloured themselves? Surely that goes far beyond the case to which he has referred?
§ Mr. MacleodNo, I do not think so. The individual case has been happily settled now. The fact that a particular piece of advice is open to criticism, if it is, does not mean that there is anything wrong with the principle of consultation.
§ Mr. SorensenDoes the Minister encourage consultation with the staff regarding the employment of staff? Does it apply right through the medical staff, down to orderlies?
§ Mr. MacleodObviously there would be no consultation on individual appointments, but on very wide matters it is perfectly proper that there should be consultation.
§ Mr. SorensenI do not agree at all.